Only in Florida does a police pursuit conclude with an officer leaping into an Uber | Carscoops

      A routine traffic stop escalated when a deputy received a ride from a rideshare van to pursue a fleeing suspect.

      The scene unfolded in Florida when a suspect took off with a backpack during the stop. A minivan, featuring Mario Kart in the back, played a crucial role in concluding the police chase.

      Police work often involves unexpected twists, and few would have imagined a police officer hopping into an Uber during a pursuit. But that’s exactly what happened when a suspect fled from a traffic stop in Florida.

      The incident began when deputies pulled over a vehicle and started questioning the individuals inside. One suspect admitted to having marijuana in the car. As the officer prepared to search the vehicle for any other illegal items, the situation took a turn.

      One suspect exited the vehicle and disregarded multiple commands to leave his backpack behind, instead tossing it to another man outside the car.

      The Bag Toss Leads to a Run

      The second suspect wasted no time; he seized the backpack and ran. Bodycam footage reveals that the deputy chased him on foot after briefly pausing to evaluate the situation and ensure his backup officer's safety.

      By the time the deputy began his pursuit, there was a significant distance between them. That’s when a citizen driving a Toyota Sienna minivan, with the side door open as if it were a getaway vehicle from a heist, arrived.

      “Get in!” shouted the driver, and the officer jumped in. The sound of the Toyota indicates that it was pushing its limits as they sped off in the direction of the fleeing suspect.

      A Video Game-like Moment on the Street

      Shortly after, they caught up, and the officer exited the minivan, now ahead of the suspect, with his taser drawn. The chase ended swiftly, all thanks to the rideshare driver.

      Before departing, the rideshare driver checked on the officer's well-being. The deputy expressed his gratitude, to which the driver replied, “Glad I could help.” The local sheriff’s office embraced the Mario Kart reference, highlighting the game available in the minivan's back seat.

      “What started as a traffic stop escalated into an intense foot chase and got a significant boost when the most legendary rideshare driver in history arrived and told the deputy, ‘let’s-a-go!’ Complete with Mario Kart in the backseat, as this driver appears prepared for any kind of race. Mamma mia, what a save! Thanks again for the lift!” was their message. Hopefully, this won't become a regular occurrence.